I know in my head I can make it again at Villa – Petrov

Stiliyan Petrov: Targeting a comeback

Stiliyan Petrov: Targeting a comeback

Former Aston Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov has underlined his intentions to return to play for the relegated Premier League side after winning his battle with cancer.

The 35-year-old, who played 105 times for Bulgaria, has returned to training with the Midlands club after winning his battle against leukaemia.

Petrov, who also played for Celtic, has been coaching and training at Villa but believes the club will need to appoint a new manager before he could be considered for a playing role.

He told Sky Sports News: “I’ve come to a level that I’ve now got a chance to go back to professional football. I’ve mentioned it to them, I’ve told them about my intention.

“If I am given an option to join them for pre-season it would be great but I think they have a big problem there at the moment. They don’t have a manager, they have to make big decisions, especially for next season.”

Petrov, who has been playing Sunday League football since his recovery, harbours hopes of returning to play for a team which will be in the Championship next season.

He added: “I think when they announce the manager and when the manager’s assessed the situation maybe I can speak to him.

“Nothing is impossible. Going through a cancer treatment they give you not very good odds of survival. You never say never in life.

“I want to get fitter and I hope I can make it, it would be a great story. I know in my head I can make it and I believe in it.”